Analysis: View of Luas drivers on new pay proposals crucial

It is probably premature to say the new pay proposals put forward by Luas operator Transdev represent a breakthrough in the lengthy dispute that has affected the Dublin light-rail system over recent months. The new pay and productivity proposals drawn up by the company have yet to be given to Luas drivers, the largest and arguably the most militant group in the company.

They account for about 170 of the near-300 staff in the company. Drivers are due to meet Transdev management on Monday.

Deal offer

However, some informed sources close to the drivers said yesterday that if they were offered a deal of about 13.1 per cent over three years – as set out for revenue-protection personnel and traffic supervisors in the company – it was unlikely to be acceptable.

The new proposals are lower than the proposed pay increases of up to 18 per cent set out in a formula drawn up in March at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) and which were overwhelmingly rejected by staff.

The Transdev proposals given to non-driver grades yesterday indicate there will be no difference between the proposals offered to different groups in the company.

The company is also, in its new offer, continuing with proposals for reduced rates for new entrants – a concept that drivers and the trade union Siptu found completely objectionable when put forward in the WRC proposals.

Transdev has also insisted in its new proposals that they must be recommended for acceptance by shop stewards in the company.

Luas staff this week cancelled plans for strikes this weekend. However, a window for a potential resolution will be brief.

A further strike is scheduled for next Thursday, while more stoppages are also planned for next month.